Keeping summer tomatoes fresh: a guide for a week

When it comes to tantalizing taste and vibrant flavors, summer tomatoes reign supreme. Whether you're using them for a mouthwatering tart, a delectable tomato sandwich, a refreshing Caprese salad, or a simple sprinkle of Maldon salt to enhance their natural sweetness, summer tomatoes are a prime example of patience paying off. SSP has prepared some tips on how to keep these juicy gems fresh and at their best for up to a week.

Shopping for the perfect tomatoes

When selecting tomatoes, timing is key – whether you're at the grocery store or a farmer's market. If they are used immediately, opt for slightly soft tomatoes without feeling like water balloons, which can indicate bruising. For tomatoes intended for later use, choose firmer ones. At a farmers market, you can even request tomatoes picked for different times of the week, while the grocery store might require a bit more careful observation.

Proper storage to maintain freshness

To ensure your tomatoes stay fresh and flavorful, store them on your kitchen counter at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Avoid stacking them on top of each other to prevent unnecessary pressure. If you have larger or heirloom tomatoes, consider storing them shoulders down to protect the tender meat of the tomato, as the shoulders ripen at a slower pace. Be cautious not to refrigerate tomatoes, as the cold temperatures can cause them to become mealy and less flavorful. Additionally, it's advisable to keep them away from other produce items, such as bananas and avocados since these emit ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening.

Preserving cut tomatoes

Unfortunately, as soon as you cut into a tomato, its quality begins to deteriorate. If you find yourself with leftover sliced tomatoes, store them in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. It's recommended to use cut tomatoes within two days to maintain optimal taste and texture.

Ripening methods for tomatoes

If your tomatoes aren't fully ripe, you can follow a few techniques to speed up the ripening process. First, expose them to sunlight by storing their shoulders up. Another method is placing them in a breathable container like a loosely closed paper bag, which traps some of the ethylene gas. For even faster results, add bananas or apples to the bag as these fruits release more ethylene, expediting ripening.

By applying these methods and tips, you can enjoy the superb flavor and delightful juiciness of summer tomatoes for an extended period. So, go ahead and savor the goodness they bring to your culinary creations, knowing that they will stay fresh all week long.